NJ Residents Helping Filipino Typhoon Victims [AUDIO]

After Typhoon Haiyan ripped through the Philippines a few days ago, the death toll continues to rise, and it may climb to more than 10,000.

Jeoffrey Maitem/Getty Images

Many New Jersey residents are wondering what's the best way to lend a helping hand to the survivors.

"If you want to help, the best way is to make a financial donation, this way the Red Cross can purchase exactly what's needed for the disaster relief operation," said the Communications Officer for the American Red Cross, North Jersey Region, Diane Concannon.

"It enables us to buy the supplies close to the disaster site," she said, "and avoids the delays and transportation costs in getting basic necessities to the people who need it most."

Concannon pointed out you can make a contribution by going to www.redcross.org, or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS.

If people in New Jersey have loved ones in the Philippines and they have not been able to get in touch with them, Concannon said they should remember there is a lot of difficulty with communications, and to keep trying.

"But if they're not able to reach them, they can contact their local Red Cross Chapter to begin a family tracing service," she said.

In Jersey City, which has one of the largest Filipino communities in the nation, Mayor Steven Fulop and City Council President Rolando Lavarro have announced a fundraiser will be held to aid the victims of the Typhoon from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 14th at Porto Lounge, 286 First Street, in Jersey City.

A representative from the American Red Cross will be on hand to collect checks for the relief effort, and Porto Lounge will donate a portion of their receipts as well.

"We know that our Filipino residents are all extremely concerned about their loved ones who are in the Philippines," said Mayor Fulop. "As the relief effort is going to take much time and billions of dollars, we are asking residents in Jersey City to help aid in the mission."